Virginia House Bill HJR599

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Engrossed: 2/6/23
• Enrolled: 2/9/23
• Passed: 2/9/23

Caption

Commending the 246 Years Project.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the importance of accessibility to historical documents, especially for communities that have been marginalized in historical narratives. By developing a free-to-access online database, the project intends to complement official government records with unofficial data kept by private households, which would ultimately foster a deeper understanding of family histories for Black individuals. The project is expected to be operational by the end of 2023 and aims to expand its reach beyond Loudoun County to other areas in Northern Virginia and the Commonwealth.

Summary

HJR599 is a resolution commending the 246 Years Project, an initiative aimed at increasing accessibility to pre-Civil War historical records that pertain to enslaved individuals. This project emerged from the recognition that many Black amateur genealogists have faced difficulties acquiring family records prior to the year 1865. Launched in 2016 by Jana Shafagoj at Morven Park, the project illustrates a significant step towards acknowledging and preserving African American lineage and history that has often been excluded from formal documentation.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HJR599 is overwhelmingly positive, as legislators acknowledge the crucial role of the 246 Years Project in making historical records more accessible. This commendation reflects a broader societal recognition of the value of genealogy and the significance of historical accuracy regarding enslaved ancestors. The initiative is seen as vital in restoring visibility to historically overlooked narratives and aiding individuals in tracing their heritage.

Contention

While the resolution is largely celebratory, potential points of contention could arise regarding the interpretations of historical records and the challenge of ensuring the accuracy of unofficial sources. Some may question the methodologies employed to compile these records, alongside the implications for historical scholarship. However, these concerns have not detracted from the support expressed in the resolution, which emphasizes appreciation for the project's mission.